Eva (@evamayha) is a big influence in NYC’s latin art community she is a curator and supporter of artists and spaces. She has had shows at Smack Mellon Gallery, BronxArtSpace, EnFoco and recently an exhibition at the Queens Museum. On top of her work in the art world, she is also an organizer and activist advocating for the importance of the arts. She organizes a monthly dinner, El Salón, which is a gathering of artists and activists alike. Polet met Eva back in 2015, when Polet was running XY Atelier Gallery in the LES. Eva helped with the curation of the show Entre La Guardia y El Dorado. Polet views Eva as an example of a truly successful woman and someone who practices and embodies our feminine power and virtue. She consistently puts herself in positions that empower other female voices, specifically Latinas here in New York.

Who is your current Muse? 

I feel very lucky to have a constellation of muses that inspire me to change, enjoy each day, and move through my work with conviction y sabor. In my work, I look towards history, Gloria Anzaldúa and Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz are big influences. My peers in the arts are always inspiring for example the art space La Salita, The Bettys, Colectivo se habla español (SHE), Latinx in Publishing and The Latinx Project which are all fronted by women identifying folks. In my day to day, I channel my abuelita when I cook, María Félix when I pick out a lipstick, my mother when I start my evening routine and my sister when I pick out my music for the day. 

How much does your Mexican heritage influence and/or fuel your work?

How does it not! It especially manifests in my ongoing project, El Salón, because my adaptability and resourcefulness correlates with my immigrant journey and nomadic upbringing. I activate aspects of hospitality, cooking, collaboration, sharing food, and creating a welcoming environment to share and exchange knowledge. The snacks I cook are typically Mexican, because it’s what I know best. 

What has been the most challenging part of your work?

As an independent curator and creative being I am inclined towards figuring things out, à la mode of freelancing, consulting, the gig economy, etc. My work does not have a delineated path, I accept opportunities, follow my gut and speak to my mentors. Sometimes this instability is taxing but more often than not it yields fruitful results. Balance and conviction is key. Speaking up about your needs is crucial from learning to negotiate to navigating work environments. I am always learning, relearning, unlearning, and growing.

What does your influence on other women mean to you? 

It’s beautiful, hard to believe and inspiring. Feedback is critical on one's work because it's based on a relationship of ideas, artists, and social settings. I’ve learned to value my mentorships because they are critical and supporting. There is a feedback loop of ideas and knowledge that is invaluable. I am very thankful when folks reach out to work with me because it signifies a resonance and relevance to my work. Without my community there wouldn't be work. 

Can you describe what your recent opportunity at the Queens Museum means to you?

The exhibition titled, Worker’s Studio: El Coop, is centered around collaborative values through the work of artist Sol Aramendi. There is a reinforcement of the importance of art and the impact beyond the museum. For this project, Sol’s social practice sets up a platform for learning about co-op businesses and collaboration as a means of work, safety, and creativity, especially for immigrants. We hear directly from the collaboratives Mujeres en Movimiento, L’unicorns, Apple Eco-Cleaning, Brightly, and Love & Learn Childcare Co-op among others. All of these, exemplify a forefront mission to support democracy, equity, justice, equality, solidarity, and sustainability.  

This opportunity highlights the intersections of creativity and my community. The resourcefulness of making and entrepreneurship that has been a long standing element of immigrant perseverance. The importance of art couldn't be clearer. 

What is your life motto? 

¡Baila! Some people sleep on things, I dance them off. 

What is the song you most relate to?

This answer will constantly change... but in the spirit of muses, Elia y Elizabeth's song Alegría is deeply entrenched in my soul, buenísima para cantar y bailar. 

What does sustainable and ethical mean to you?

In order to hold truth in sustainability and ethical being ––we must be intentional. I give attention, respect, time and space to the person and ideas, to the best of my ability. As we continue our creative endeavors, I believe that collaborating is an important aspect of upholding value in sustainability and ethical practices. 

What about Casa Muza inspires you?

The attention that is felt from stitch to garment. The elegance that channels effortless feminine energy. Most importantly, the authenticity of each muse that wears and connects through Casa Muza. I love the pants.